The winter months are here for a little while longer, that is if you believe in a certain groundhog who sees his shadow on a certain day. And with the winter months comes chilly weather, less sunshine, and more time spent indoors. Here are several tips to take care of yourself and your health while we endure winter for a little while longer.

 Stay active. Being inside does not mean you have to be immobile. Try yoga or stretching activities in your living room or dorm room. Utilize the CoRec to burn energy and calories. Bundle up and go for a walk when the weather is appropriate. Staying active boosts your mood as well as increases your energy levels. So, get up and move. Your body and brain will thank you for it.

 Stay hydrated. Winter brings with it dry, frigid air. You might not feel as thirsty as you would when you are out in the heat, but your body still needs hydration, inside and out. Adults should drink at least eight glasses of water each day. Each time you drink a cup of coffee or tea, challenge yourself to follow it with a glass of water. Use lotion and ChapStick to help your skin and lips stay moisturized. Humidifiers are a terrific addition to your home, especially near your bed at night. Be sure to follow manufacturer and CDC guidelines for cleaning and emptying tank water to prevent bacteria or mold growth.

 Stay social. It is easy to stay bundled up at home when temperatures are frigid outside. But staying home alone can cause feelings of isolation and even lead to depression. Stay connected with your friends and family through Zoom or FaceTime. Find a safe online gaming community with which you can interact. Meet up with your study group at Starbucks before hitting the library. Purdue Convocations has been working hard to put together an amazing spread of events for students to enjoy. Grab a friend or your partner and have a night out to see one of the shows. Purdue Student Union Board has events planned throughout the semester. There is always something to do on campus, so get out there (or in there) and be social.

 As we wait for winter to end, most important of all, take the time to do something for yourself. Something that fills your cup. Because your wellbeing matters and so do you.